Textile fibers | Classification of Textile Fibers

Textile Fibers:

Textile fibers are the fundamental building blocks of the textile industry, forming the basis for a wide range of products, from clothing and home textiles to industrial materials. A fiber is defined as a flexible, thread-like structure that is at least 100 times longer than it is wide, with a high aspect ratio. There are several types of textile fibers available, including natural, man-made, and other fibers, each with unique properties and characteristics that make them suitable for various applications. The selection of fiber type plays a vital role in determining the quality, durability, and functionality of the final product, making it a crucial consideration for textile manufacturers. This article will provide an overview of the different types of textile fibers available, their properties, and their applications, providing a comprehensive guide for those interested in the textile industry.

Classification of Textile Fibers:

Textile fibers can be classified into two broad categories: natural fibers and Man-made fiber. Let's take a closer look at each type of fiber:

Read More: What are the fibers used in Textile Industry

1. Natural fiber: 

Natural fiber refers to a type of fiber that is obtained from plants, animals, or minerals and is not artificially created or synthesized. Examples of natural fibers include cotton, wool, silk, linen, jute, hemp, and sisal. These fibers are widely used in the textile industry to create fabrics, clothing, and other textile products. Natural fibers are often preferred for their comfort, breathability, and biodegradability, as well as their unique characteristics and properties. Compared to synthetic fibers, natural fibers are generally considered to be more sustainable and environmentally friendly.

1.1 Animal fiber: Animal fiber refers to the fibers obtained from animals and is widely used in the textile industry. These fibers are protein-based, and they are used to make warm and luxurious clothing items. Here are some common animal fibers:

1.1.1 Silk: Silk is a natural protein fiber that is obtained from the cocoons of the silk moth. It is known for its lustrous appearance, softness, and draping qualities. It is commonly used to make high-end clothing items, such as dresses, blouses, and scarves.

1.1.2 Wool (sheep): Wool is a natural fiber obtained from the fleece of sheep. It is known for its insulating properties, softness, and durability. It is commonly used to make warm clothing items, such as sweaters, blankets, and coats.

1.1.3 Hair (alpaca, camel, cow, goat [mohair, cashmere], horse, rabbit [angora], vicuna): These fibers are obtained from the hair of various animals and are known for their softness, warmth, and insulation properties. They are commonly used to make clothing items such as sweaters, shawls, and scarves.

Note: Each animal fiber has its unique characteristics and properties, which make it suitable for different types of clothing and textiles.

1.2 Vegetable fiber: Vegetable fiber refers to fibers that are derived from plants and are widely used in the textile industry. These fibers are cellulose-based and are available in various lengths and thicknesses. Here are some common vegetable fibers:

1.2.1 Seed (cotton, kapok, coir): Cotton is a soft, fluffy fiber that grows around the seeds of the cotton plant. Kapok is a soft, silky fiber that comes from the seed pods of the kapok tree. Coir is a coarse, stiff fiber that is extracted from the outer husk of coconuts.

1.2.2 Bast (flax, hemp, jute, kenaf, ramie): These fibers are obtained from the bark of plants and are known for their strength and durability. Flax is a soft, lustrous fiber that is used to make linen. Hemp is a strong, coarse fiber that is used to make rope, twine, and textiles. Jute is a soft, shiny fiber that is used to make burlap and other textiles. Kenaf and Ramie are similar fibers that are used in the textile industry for their strength and durability.

1.2.3 Leaf (manila, henequen, phormium tenax, sisal): These fibers are obtained from the leaves of plants and are known for their strength and durability. Manila is a strong, durable fiber that is used to make rope, twine, and other textiles. Heneguen is a fiber that is obtained from the leaves of a type of agave plant and is used to make rope and twine. Phormium tenax is a fiber that is obtained from the leaves of a New Zealand flax plant and is used to make textiles. Sisal is a strong, coarse fiber that is obtained from the leaves of the sisal plant and is used to make rope, twine, and other textiles.

Note: Each vegetable fiber has its unique characteristics and properties, which make it suitable for different types of clothing and textiles.

1.3 Mineral fiber (Asbestos): Mineral fiber refers to the fibers that are obtained from natural minerals and are used in various industries, including construction and insulation. Asbestos is a type of mineral fiber that was widely used in construction and insulation due to its heat-resistant properties. However, it has been found to be harmful to human health, and its use has been severely restricted or banned in many countries. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Therefore, it is important to handle asbestos with extreme care and follow appropriate safety procedures when working with it. In recent years, there has been a growing movement towards the use of safer and more sustainable alternatives to asbestos in construction and insulation.

2. Man-made fiber: 

Man-made fiber, also known as synthetic fiber, is a type of fiber that is made from chemical substances rather than natural materials. These fibers are created using various chemical processes that transform raw materials into fibers of different lengths and thicknesses. Here are all the man-made fibers:

2.1 Synthetic polymer: Synthetic polymer fibers are a type of man-made fiber that is created by polymerizing various chemical compounds. Here are some common synthetic polymer fibers:

2.1.1 Polymethylene urea (poly carbamide): Polymethylene urea, also known as poly carbamide, is a type of synthetic polymer fiber that is created by polymerizing urea and formaldehyde. It is known for its strength, durability, and resistance to shrinkage.

2.1.2 Polyolefin (olefin): Polyolefin is a type of synthetic polymer fiber that is created by polymerizing olefins, which are hydrocarbons that contain a double bond. Polyethylene and polypropylene are two common types of polyolefin fibers.

2.1.2.1 Polyethylene: Polyethylene is a synthetic polymer fiber that is created by polymerizing ethylene. It is known for its strength, durability, and resistance to moisture, chemicals, and UV rays. It is commonly used in the production of packaging materials, ropes, and textiles.

2.1.2.2 Polypropylene: Polypropylene is a synthetic polymer fiber that is created by polymerizing propylene. It is known for its strength, durability, and resistance to moisture, chemicals, and UV rays. It is commonly used in the production of packaging materials, carpets, and textiles.

Note: Synthetic polymer fibers are widely used in the textile industry due to their versatility, durability, and ease of production. They can be used in a wide range of applications, from clothing and textiles to industrial materials and packaging.

2.1.3 Polyvinyl derivatives: Polyvinyl derivatives are a type of man-made fiber that is created by polymerizing vinyl-based compounds. Here are some common types of polyvinyl derivative fibers:

2.1.3.1 Lastrile: Lastrile is a type of polyvinyl derivative fiber that is created by polymerizing a blend of vinyl chloride and acrylonitrile. It is known for its strength and durability, and it is commonly used in the production of heavy-duty fabrics, such as upholstery and outdoor fabrics.

2.1.3.2 Novoloid: Novoloid is a type of polyvinyl derivative fiber that is created by polymerizing formaldehyde and a phenol derivative. It is known for its high-temperature resistance and chemical resistance, and it is commonly used in the production of industrial textiles, such as protective clothing and filtration materials.

2.1.3.3 Anidex: Anidex is a type of polyvinyl derivative fiber that is created by polymerizing acrylonitrile and vinyl chloride. It is known for its strength and resistance to abrasion and chemicals, and it is commonly used in the production of industrial textiles, such as conveyor belts and hoses.

2.1.3.4 Acrylic: Acrylic is a type of polyvinyl derivative fiber that is created by polymerizing a blend of acrylonitrile and other monomers. It is known for its softness, warmth, and resistance to sunlight and chemicals. It is commonly used in the production of clothing, blankets, and carpets.

2.1.3.5 Modacrylic: Modacrylic is a type of polyvinyl derivative fiber that is created by polymerizing a blend of acrylonitrile and other monomers. It is known for its flame resistance and softness, and it is commonly used in the production of clothing and upholstery.

2.1.3.6 Nytril: Nytril is a type of polyvinyl derivative fiber that is created by polymerizing a blend of acrylonitrile and other monomers. It is known for its strength and resistance to abrasion and chemicals, and it is commonly used in the production of industrial textiles, such as ropes and hoses.

2.1.3.7 Chlorofibre: Chlorofibre is a type of man-made fiber that is made from a polymer derived from vinyl chloride. It is known for its high resistance to flame and chemicals, making it a popular choice for industrial applications such as filters, conveyor belts, and hoses.

2.1.3.7.1 Polyvinyl chloride (PVC): Polyvinyl chloride is also known as vinyon, is a type of plastic that is used to make a variety of products including pipes, siding, and flooring. It can also be used to make fibers that are used in applications such as waterproof clothing, inflatable structures, and artificial leather.

2.1.3.7.2 Polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC): Polyvinylidene chloride also known as saran, is a type of plastic that is used to make a variety of products including food packaging, electrical wire insulation, and coatings for fabrics. It can also be used to make fibers that are used in applications such as clothing, upholstery, and carpeting. PVDC fibers are known for their high resistance to chemicals, moisture, and UV light.

2.1.3.8 Vinylal: Vinylal is a type of polyvinyl derivative fiber that is created by acetalizing a blend of vinyl alcohol and other monomers. It is known for its strength and resistance to heat and chemicals, and it is commonly used in the production of industrial textiles, such as conveyor belts and hoses.

2.1.3.9 Fluorofibre (PTFE): Fluorofibre is a type of polyvinyl derivative fiber that is created by polymerizing tetrafluoroethylene. It is known for its strength, durability, and resistance to heat and chemicals, and it is commonly used in the production of industrial textiles, such as filtration materials and high-performance clothing.

2.1.3.10 Trivinyl: Trivinyl is a type of polyvinyl derivative fiber that is created by polymerizing a blend of vinyl chloride and other monomers. It is known for its strength and resistance to abrasion and chemicals, and it is commonly used in the production of industrial textiles, such as conveyor belts and hoses.

2.1.3.11 Polystyrene: Polystyrene is a type of polyvinyl derivative fiber that is created by polymerizing styrene. It is known for its stiffness, durability, and resistance to heat and chemicals

2.1.4 Polyurethane: Polyurethane is a type of synthetic polymer that is known for its high durability, elasticity, and resistance to abrasion and chemicals. It can be produced in both non-segmented and segmented forms.

2.1.4.1 Non-segmented polyurethane: Non-segmented polyurethane is commonly used in the production of solid materials such as coatings, adhesives, and sealants. It is made by reacting diisocyanates with polyols and other additives. Non-segmented polyurethane can be moulded into various shapes and used in a wide range of applications, such as automotive parts, electronic devices, and construction materials.

2.1.4.2 Segmented polyurethane: Segmented polyurethane also known as spandex or Lycra, is commonly used in the production of stretchable fabrics. It is made by reacting diisocyanates with short-chain diols and long-chain diols to create a block copolymer with alternating hard and soft segments. The soft segments provide stretch and elasticity, while the hard segments provide strength and durability. Segmented polyurethane is commonly used in the production of athletic wear, swimwear, compression garments, and other stretchable fabrics.

2.1.5 Polyamide (Nylon): Polyamide (Nylon) also known as nylon, is a type of synthetic polymer that is known for its high strength, abrasion resistance, and elasticity. It is commonly used in the production of fabrics, such as stockings, swimsuits, and sportswear, as well as in the production of various industrial materials.

2.1.6 Aramid: Aramid is a type of synthetic polymer that is known for its high strength, heat resistance, and durability. It is commonly used in the production of protective clothing, such as bulletproof vests and helmets, as well as in the production of various industrial materials.

2.1.7 Polyester: Polyester is a type of synthetic polymer that is known for its high strength, durability, and resistance to wrinkles and shrinkage. It is commonly used in the production of fabrics, such as clothing, bedding, and upholstery, as well as in the production of various industrial materials.

2.1.8 Synthetic polyisoprene: Synthetic polyisoprene is a type of synthetic polymer that is similar in structure and properties to natural rubber. It is commonly used in the production of medical gloves and other products that require a high level of flexibility and stretchability.

2.2 Natural polymers: Natural polymers are macromolecules that are derived from natural sources, such as plants, animals, or microorganisms. Two examples of natural polymers are alginate and rubber.

2.2.1 Alginate: Alginate is a natural polymer that is derived from brown seaweed. It is commonly used in the food industry as a thickening and stabilizing agent, and in the medical field as a wound dressing and drug delivery system. Alginate can form a gel when it comes into contact with calcium ions, making it useful for encapsulating drugs or other active ingredients.

2.2.2 Rubber: Rubber is a natural polymer that is produced by several species of trees, such as the rubber tree. It is known for its unique elastic properties, which make it useful in the production of various products, such as tires, rubber bands, and gloves. Natural rubber is made up of long chains of polyisoprene, a monomer that is derived from isoprene.

2.2.3 Regenerated protein fibers: Regenerated protein fibers are derived from natural proteins that have been processed to create fibers with specific characteristics. Two examples of regenerated protein fibers are casein and arachin zein.

2.2.3.1 Animal (casein): Casein is a protein that is found in milk. It can be processed to create a fiber that is soft, lightweight, and has good moisture absorption properties. Casein fibers are commonly used in the production of textiles and clothing, as well as in the manufacture of adhesives and coatings.

2.2.3.2 Vegetable (arachin zein): Arachin and zein are two plant proteins that can be extracted from peanuts and corn, respectively. These proteins can be processed to create fibers that are lightweight, strong, and have good moisture absorption properties. Arachin zein fibers are commonly used in the production of textiles, paper products, and packaging materials.

Note: Regenerated protein fibers have the advantage of being biodegradable and environmentally friendly, as they are derived from natural sources. However, they can be more difficult to produce and process than synthetic fibers, which can make them more expensive.

2.2.4 Regenerated cellulose (Rayon): Regenerated cellulose fibers are made from cellulose that has been chemically processed to create a fiber with specific properties. One of the most common types of regenerated cellulose fiber is rayon, which has several different varieties including viscose, Cupra, modal, deacetylated acetate, and lyocell.

2.2.4.1 Viscose: Viscose is a type of rayon that is made from wood pulp or other plant materials. It is a versatile fiber that can be used in the production of clothing, upholstery, and other textiles. Viscose fibers are soft, comfortable, and have good draping properties.

2.2.4.2 Cupra: Cupra is another type of rayon that is made from cotton linters, which are the short fibers that remain after cotton has been processed. Cupra fibers are known for their softness, lustre, and excellent dyeing properties.

2.2.4.3 Modal: Modal is a type of rayon that is made from beechwood pulp. It is a strong and durable fiber that is resistant to shrinkage and pilling. Modal fibers are commonly used in the production of clothing, bedding, and towels.

2.2.4.4 Deacetylated acetate: Deacetylated acetate is a type of rayon that is made from wood pulp or other plant materials. It is known for its softness and silk-like texture. Deacetylated acetate fibers are commonly used in the production of lingerie, sleepwear, and other intimate apparel.

2.2.4.5 Lyocell: Lyocell is a type of rayon that is made from wood pulp or other plant materials. It is a sustainable and environmentally friendly fiber that is known for its softness, strength, and moisture-wicking properties. Lyocell fibers are commonly used in the production of clothing, bedding, and other textiles.

2.2.5 Cellulose esters: Cellulose esters are a type of fiber that is made by chemically modifying cellulose. The most common types of cellulose esters used in the textile industry are acetate and triacetate.

2.2.5.1 Acetate fibers: Acetate fibers are made from cellulose acetate, which is created by reacting cellulose with acetic acid. Acetate fibers are known for their softness, lustre, and draping properties. They are commonly used in the production of clothing, linings, and upholstery.

2.2.5.2 Triacetate fibers: Triacetate fibers are made from cellulose triacetate, which is created by reacting cellulose with a combination of acetic acid and acetic anhydride. Triacetate fibers are known for their strength, durability, and resistance to wrinkles and shrinkage. They are commonly used in the production of clothing, linings, and upholstery.

3. Others: 

There are also other types of fibers that are not commonly used in textile production but have specific industrial applications. These include:

3.1 Carbon fiber: Made from carbon atoms and known for their high strength-to-weight ratio and resistance to high temperatures. Carbon fibers are commonly used in the aerospace and sports equipment industries.

3.2 Glass fiber: Made from fine fibers of glass and known for their high strength, durability, and resistance to heat and chemicals. Glass fibers are commonly used in the production of insulation materials, electrical and electronic components, and reinforcement for plastic and composites.

3.3 Metal fiber: Made from various types of metals, including stainless steel, copper, and aluminium. Metal fibers are commonly used in filtration, electrical conductivity, and reinforcement applications.

3.4 Ceramic fiber: Made from a range of ceramic materials and known for their high-temperature resistance and thermal insulation properties. Ceramic fibers are commonly used in industrial furnaces, kilns, and insulation materials.

In conclusion, textile fibers are an essential component of the textile and apparel industry, providing the raw materials for a vast range of products. There are several types of fibers available, including natural, man-made, and other fibers like carbon, glass, metal, and ceramic fibers, each with unique properties that make them suitable for various applications. The selection of fiber type depends on several factors, including the intended use, desired properties, and cost-effectiveness. With ongoing research and technological advancements, new types of fibers are continually emerging, providing exciting opportunities for the industry to create innovative and sustainable products.

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Textile SOP